Balance Brewing and Blending have released five new ciders, almost two years in the making, being from a 2023 vintage.
Balance started with a bulk ferment, and then have aged the ciders in barrel to add complexity and refinement.
There are two single variety releases, Chisel Jersey and Yarlington Mill, each aged for nine months in red wine barrels. The other three ciders are all blended ciders aged on sage, elderflower, and hops respectively.
The line-up
Yarlington Mill (8.2% ABV), aged in Bordeaux barrels
Yarlington Mill brings richness and dried fruits against a background of structured, vinous tannins and subtle vanilla from the barrel. It finishes with honey dryness and a hint of funky caramel.
Chisel Jersey (8.2% ABV), aged in Bordeaux barrels
Chisel Jersey brings tropical fruit and acidity with big, bold tannic structure. Bold, vibrant, and juicy, with refreshing crisp dryness, it finishes with pineapple and straw funk.
Dry-Hopped Cider (8% ABV, blended)
Distinctively aromatic with waves of floral, earthy spice, and subtle peach, the hop character melds with the dry, tart cider to create a beguiling drink. Notes of crisp apple, orange wine, and fruity hop character tantalise before a crisp finish.
Sage Cider (8% ABV, blended)
There is a delicate umami character in this cider, in both aroma and flavour, which builds as you drink. The sage lifts the underlying apple character and mingles with the tannins to create a complex cider, great for pairing with food.
Elderflower Cider (8% ABV, blended)
There is a really heady aroma from this cider; crisp, fresh elderflower mingles with the dry, funky base, bringing dried fruit, leather, and pineapple cubes. A floral, tart, and dry finish refreshes the palate.
